Post-Marathon Adventures in Kansas City: Barbecue, History, and Scenic Strolls
After crossing the finish line at the Garmin Olathe Marathon in Kansas, there was only one logical next step: refueling with the legendary barbecue over the state line in Kansas City, Missouri. A city synonymous with smoked meats and bold flavors, I couldn’t leave without sampling burnt ends, the caramelized nuggets of beef that have become a regional staple.
Following the recommendation of Microsoft Copilot, I made my way to Joe’s Kansas City Bar-B-Que, an unassuming spot with a cult following. The line stretched out the door and snaked through the restaurant, but like a well-oiled machine, it moved with impressive efficiency. I opted for their famous Z-Man sandwich, stacked with brisket, provolone, and crispy onion rings, and paired it with spicy slaw for an extra kick. Washing it down with a Boulevard Lemon Grass non-alcoholic beer, a nod to Kansas City’s local brewing prowess, completed the experience.
With my appetite satisfied, it was time for some sightseeing.
Arrowhead Stadium is a pilgrimage site for football fans, but my visit was unexpectedly cut short. The Kansas City Royals had a game, and I was not allowed to park. Though I didn’t get to soak in the atmosphere from inside, the sheer scale of the stadium was fairly impressive from afar.
Next, I headed to the National WWI Museum and Memorial, an institution revered for its comprehensive collection and breathtaking Liberty Memorial Tower views. As I stood atop the tower, Kansas City’s skyline stretched before me, serving as a backdrop to no less than two photo shoots—a reminder that even history has its fashionable moments.
Inside, I immersed myself in exhibits detailing the causes of World War I, a sobering reminder of how small sparks can ignite global conflicts. The eerie parallels to today’s geopolitical tensions lingered in my mind. Could history repeat itself? The thought was unsettling, but undeniable.
For a change of pace, I headed to Country Club Plaza, a district blending Spanish architecture with modern shopping and dining. The tile-adorned fountains, wrought-iron balconies, and vibrant stucco facades made it feel like a European escape in the heart of the Midwest. Another photo shoot was underway, reinforcing Kansas City’s underrated beauty as a backdrop.
With the afternoon winding down, it was time to head to Kansas City International Airport and return to Colorado. Though my visit was brief, it packed in a lot that makes Kansas City special—history, sports, culture, and (most importantly) barbecue. One thing I did not get a sense for was a high rate of violent or property crime born out by official statistics. I only explored a fraction of the city and everywhere I went seemed not only very clean, but very safe.
Kansas City proved that even a short visit can leave a lasting impression. Next time, I’ll plan for a longer stay—perhaps with an Arrowhead Stadium tour and more time to soak in the sights. But for now, I left content, carrying the lingering taste of burnt ends and the weight of history in my thoughts.
An Aside
This, apparently, is the 2000th blog post I have published on my website! I started blogging in 1995 (although some articles are back-dated to 1992), before “blog” (or “web log”) was even a term. It’s amazing to think it’s been 30 years since then already. Thanks for reading!
There are 2 comments.
Felix
Nice to meet you at the Delta Century.
I posted you to the SBC Facebook page & Matt Beckwith responded with well wishes.
I’ll keep following your adventures too.
All the Best
Bill, great to meet you at the Delta Century! I checked out your video and really enjoyed it—great work capturing the event. Thanks for sharing on the Stockton Bike Club page, and I appreciate the well wishes from Matt.
I just posted my write-up along with some photos and video from the ride. Check it out here.
Looking forward to following more of your adventures too. Hope to see you again next year!